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Slovakia

Set against a backdrop of wooden churches, brooding forests and snow-capped peaks, Slovakia is a land where folktales come to life. Boasting ancient castle ruins, cool street art and an array of cafés and bars, Slovakia offers an opportunity to discover a relatively tourist-free place before it changes forever. Still searching for its ‘famous for…’ line, Slovakia captivates its travellers with its mix of old and new, Bratislava’s quirky character and the tremendous peaks of the Tatra Mountains.

Best time to visit Slovakia

Slovakia enjoys four very distinct seasons. Summers are blissfully warm with July and August the most popular times to visit. To skip the crowds, travel in spring and autumn. Be sure to bring warmer clothes, as nights can get quite cold, especially in the mountains. Slovakia turns into a white wonderland over winter and temperatures drop below freezing. Excessive snow cuts off the Tatra Mountains from November to March.

Geography and environment

Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, stretches out into the lowlands, where the Danube rolls past farms and meadows. Further to the north and west, the country abounds with natural beauty including the Tatra Mountains, lakes, forests and caves. The Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Ukraine and Austria are all within easy reach of this tiny landlocked country and Vienna is easily reached as a day trip from Bratislava.

Top Picks

Top 5 Folksy Places in Slovakia

1. The Tatra Mountains

With soaring peaks, thick forests and simple villages, the Tatra Mountains are straight out of a storybook. Stretch the legs with a hilly hike or take a funicular to one of the heady peaks.

2. Hidden Treasures

Bratislava is filled with hidden treasures. Search out the curious Peeping Tom statues poking out from doorways and manholes. And be sure to look up when walking past older buildings, you might see a cannonball, courtesy of Napoleon, still embedded in the walls.

3. Bratislava Castle

Perched high above the city on a rocky outcrop is the grand Bratislava Castle. Walk around the grounds for sweeping views all the way to Hungary.

4. Devin Castle

The rocky ruins of this 13th-century castle conjure up images of dragons, witches and epic quests. Take a boat along the Danube for your own adventure and gaze up at the ruins on a river cruise.

5. Danube River

One of Europe’s mightiest rivers winds its way past forest, cliffs and castles. Take a walk along its banks or even hire a bike to cycle its banks.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Slovakia/public-holidays

Health and Safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From US?

From UK?

The World Health Organisation

Responsible Travel

Slovakia Travel Tips

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Slovakia

1. Be considerate of Slovakia’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.